Christian Coaching School Podcast

Dr. Leelo Bush, #1 Authority on Spirit-Led, Christian Life Coaching

Join Dr. Leelo Bush, #1 recognized authority on Spirit-led, Christian Life Coaching for a weekly dose of Christian Life Coach training and continuing education, when you tune in to the Christian Coaching School Podcast©. Our mission is to introduce you to Christian Life Coaching and our school and also to offer graduates and more experienced coaches, continuing education opportunities.

  1. OCT 14

    A Spirit-Led Pause for Renewal

    Dr. Leelo Bush shares a heartfelt update with her listeners, announcing a pause in weekly episode production after nearly a decade of faith-driven encouragement and personal growth. Through reflection and prayer, she and her team are seeking God's guidance for a renewed direction that better serves listeners' spiritual and practical needs. This message offers reassurance, gratitude, and a reminder that peace and purpose remain available to all who walk with faith. 📘 What You'll Learn Why Christian Coaching School is pausing to realign with God's next steps. How reflection and prayer shape the direction of Spirit-led work. Ways to continue finding peace and growth during seasons of waiting. Where to stay connected with Dr. Bush and the Courageous Christian Coaching Tribe community. 💬 Quotable Moment "Remember, you're not meant to carry life's burdens alone. Peace is possible, even in uncertainty." — Dr. Leelo Bush   📖 Scriptures Mentioned / Implied While no verses are directly cited, the tone and message reflect: Philippians 4:7 — "And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Isaiah 26:3 — "You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you."   Resources PCCCA Courses: https://pccca.org/courses/ Healing the Grieving Brain Guide: https://griefcoachu.com/healing/ The Comprehensive Christian Coach Handbook (Dr. Leelo Bush): Amazon link Courageous Christian Coaching Tribe (Facebook group): facebook.com/groups/courageouschristiancoachingtribe

    3 min
  2. OCT 7

    Inner Peace

    In a world overwhelmed by fear, chaos, and constant noise, Dr. Leelo Bush offers a Spirit-led guide to cultivating unshakable inner peace. She unpacks daily practices—rooted in Scripture, neuroscience, and practical coaching tools—that help you remain calm, grounded, and God-focused even in the middle of life's storms. This episode empowers Christian coaches and believers to anchor themselves in Christ's peace and model it for others. 📌 What You'll Learn Why true peace doesn't come from circumstances but from Christ within you Practical routines (morning, reset, evening) to strengthen inner calm How neuroscience supports biblical thought renewal and peace practices Simple reframing tools to replace anxiety with trust and clarity Daily "peace plans" to pre-train your mind before chaos strikes 💬 Quotable Moment "Peace doesn't mean the storm stops. It means you can remain steady in the middle of it." CHRISTIAN COACHING SCHOOL - SEA… 📖 Scriptures Mentioned Philippians 4:8 – "Think on things that are true, noble, pure, praiseworthy." John 14:27 – "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give to you." Resources PCCCA Courses: https://pccca.org/courses/ Healing the Grieving Brain Guide: https://griefcoachu.com/healing/ The Comprehensive Christian Coach Handbook (Dr. Leelo Bush): Amazon link Courageous Christian Coaching Tribe (Facebook group): facebook.com/groups/courageouschristiancoachingtribe Full Clean Transcript This morning when I came out of the kitchen, Evan was already making coffee. He told me how he had somewhat of a sleep disturbed night. He'd been watching the news about the latest FBI investigations into the Charlie Kirk assassination and related discussions. He mentioned the saber rattling among various countries. Not to mention the two hurricanes off the coast of Florida, where we live. This is our world today. Lots of drama and fear mongering from the media, as well as concerns for our future and ensuring we treat situations with wisdom and justice. It's a lot. And to be clear, Evan didn't tell me these things to upset me. It was just a matter of fact. This is what's going on, and it's a pretty safe guess you have similar thoughts and conversations in your own life. Today's episode will hopefully bring some relief. Welcome to the Christian Coaching School podcast. I'm your host, Doctor Leelo Bush. I'm a master coach, author, curriculum creator, and the number one authority on Spirit-led Christian coaching. I've trained tens of thousands worldwide since 2003, and if you are ready to uplevel your skills, find greater fulfillment, and employ the most powerful coaching available to mankind, let's go. Today, I want to talk with you about something we all crave: inner peace. We may each describe it differently, but at its core, inner peace is that deep sense of calm and steadiness in your soul, no matter what's happening around you. It's when you can sit in the middle of life's storms and still feel grounded. Some of us refer to this as being unbothered. People sometimes ask me, "Don't you care?" with some kind of frustration in their voice. Of course I care. But I have learned to maintain my peace 98% of the time. Hey, no one's perfect. Then I feel compelled to convince them I do care, but I have peace. I can see how it's hard to understand, especially when someone is in the middle of being very upset. And let's be honest. Inner peace doesn't just show up and stay without effort. There are so many things in our daily lives that get in the way of it. For example, maybe you're lying in bed at night and your mind won't stop racing about bills, a strained relationship, or an uncertain future. Or you walk into the office and before you've even had your coffee, someone's negative attitude, or a flood of emails, sends your stress level through the roof. Sometimes it's our own choices, like saying yes to every request until our schedules are packed so tightly we can't breathe. Other times, it's unexpected—a medical diagnosis, a sudden loss, or a crisis that seems to turn your world upside down. Even subtle things chip away at peace. Social media can leave you comparing yourself to others and feeling less than. The news cycle constantly bombards us with fear and negativity. And let's not forget the small daily frustrations like traffic jams, computer glitches, or even the tone of voice from someone we love that pile up and make us feel frazzled. These interruptions can shift our focus from what matters to what's urgent, leaving us restless and depleted. So what can you do when you're in the middle of chaos and your peace feels threatened? First, take a pause. Step back, even if only for a few minutes, and breathe slowly and deeply. It tells your nervous system that you are safe, which immediately begins to calm your body and mind. Second, reframe your thoughts. Instead of "I can't handle this," try telling yourself, "I don't have to solve everything at once. I can take the next step." That small shift in perspective can reduce the weight that you are carrying. You can also practice selective focus. If the news, social media, or even certain people constantly unsettle you, give yourself permission to step away for a while. Silence your phone. Close the laptop. Or create a peace zone in your home where you can retreat and reset. And then anchor yourself spiritually. Whisper a prayer. Open your Bible to a favorite verse or play worship music. These reminders reconnect you to God's presence where true peace is found. Remember that peace doesn't mean the storm stops. It means you can remain steady in the middle of it. Choosing peace in small, deliberate ways, whether by journaling your thoughts, taking a walk in nature, or simply sitting in gratitude, creates resilience. And over time, these practices turn chaos into calm and fear into trust. There's another key to holding on to your peace, and that's what modern neuroscience teaches us about the power of daily thought work. Every time you practice calming your mind, shifting your focus, or reframing your thoughts, you're literally training your brain. Just like lifting weights builds muscle, rehearsing peaceful responses builds stronger neural pathways that make it easier to stay calm when new challenges arise. If you only try to find peace in the middle of a crisis, it feels almost impossible because your brain is in survival mode. But if you've already practiced day by day how to slow your breathing, choose better thoughts, and remind yourself of truth, then when chaos hits, you're not scrambling. You've already laid down the mental track for how you will respond. Instead of reacting with panic or frustration, your brain has a plan. You have rehearsed it, and you know what to do. Over time, this consistent thought work helps your peace become second nature, something that you can carry into every situation. Now let me teach you how to do that thought work step by step so that you are ready before the next wave hits. This is actually a set of short routines you can do at various times of the day. The morning routine takes about five minutes. Sit tall. Inhale for a count of four. Hold for a count of two and exhale for a count of six. Do this three times. Ask, "What's my loudest thought right now?" and say it out loud. Name the emotion it creates and rate it 0 to 10 with ten being the greatest. Now reframe: "What's a truer, more helpful way to see this?" Craft one sentence you can believe. Anchor it with truth—a short scripture or phrase. For example: "Peace I leave with you" or "I only need the next right step." My personal favorite is: "I am happy, healthy, calm, and peaceful." I close my eyes and repeat this to myself at least three times in a row. Then you pick one micro action that matches your reframe. Send the email, put the bill on your calendar, or set a boundary for your time. It's also crucial to preplan your triggers, and this takes about two minutes. Think of one likely stressor today—traffic, a tough conversation, a tech issue. Create an if-then peace plan: "If the meeting gets tense, then I will slow my breathing, lower my voice, and say, 'Let's pause so I can respond thoughtfully.'" Visualize yourself doing it once, start to finish. We also need an in-the-moment reset, and this takes about 90 seconds. When chaos hits, pause. Take two slow breaths. Name it: "This is frustration." Normalize it: "It's human to feel this." Neutralize it with a simple thought: "I only need the next step." Then take the next right step—a boundary statement, a short walk, or a single small task that moves things forward. And we can end the day with an evening lock-in that takes about three minutes. Ask yourself, "Where did I keep my peace today?" and celebrate one win. Also note one place you might have lost your peace. Rewrite that moment with a better thought and a simple if-then: "If this happens, then I will do that or think that or say that next time." End with gratitude for three specific things, no matter how small. If you practice these tiny reps every day, your brain learns your peace plan on autopilot. When new drama pops up, you've already rehearsed how to handle it calmly, clearly, and with the presence of God guiding your response. So how do you create more inner peace in your life overall? It begins with recognizing that peace is not found in circumstances. It's found in how we respond to them. Philippians 4:8 reminds us to think on things that are true, noble, pure, and praiseworthy. That kind of intentional focus shifts our heart from anxiety to rest. And Jesus said in John 14:27, "Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you." His peace is not fragile. It's steady, supernatural, and available to us right now. If you practice these small shifts, thought by thought, day by day, you will begin to notice that peace becomes your default

    15 min
  3. SEP 30

    A Legacy for Christian Coaches and Leaders

    In this episode, Dr. Leelo Bush reflects on the power of conviction and courage, drawing inspiration from Charlie Kirk's "Never Surrender" message. She parallels his example with the calling of Christian coaches, counselors, and leaders to live and teach boldly, even through difficult times and opposition. Dr. Bush shares practical coaching tools rooted in Scripture to help clients clarify convictions, transform grief into purpose, practice courage, and leave a Christ-centered legacy. What You'll Learn Why courage and conviction are essential for Christian coaching and leadership Four tools to help clients grow: Conviction Clarifier, Grief-to-Purpose Mapping, Courage Role Play, and Legacy Letter How to guide others in transforming personal loss into Kingdom purpose How Scripture anchors resilience, authenticity, and boldness in coaching practice The importance of living with conviction and modeling Christlike courage Quotable Moments "One life lived with conviction can awaken a generation." CHRISTIAN COACHING SCHOOL - SEA… "Grief becomes the soil for new growth." CHRISTIAN COACHING SCHOOL - SEA… "Never surrender to fear, never surrender to grief, and never surrender your calling." CHRISTIAN COACHING SCHOOL - SEA… Scriptures Mentioned Joshua 1:9 – "Be strong and courageous…" 2 Timothy 1:7 – "God has not given us a spirit of fear…" Hebrews 12 – "Run with perseverance, fixing our eyes on Jesus…" Resources PCCCA Courses: https://pccca.org/courses/ Healing the Grieving Brain Guide: https://griefcoachu.com/healing/ The Comprehensive Christian Coach Handbook (Dr. Leelo Bush): Amazon link Courageous Christian Coaching Tribe (Facebook group): facebook.com/groups/courageouschristiancoachingtribe Full Transcript Charlie Kirk once said, "If you believe in something, you need to have the courage to fight for those ideas, not run away from them, or try and silence them." Those words capture the heart of what I want to share with you today. This is more than a tribute to Charlie Kirk. It's a conversation about how his message of courage and conviction can inspire us as Christian coaches, counselors, and ministry leaders. This is today's topic. Welcome to the Christian Coaching School podcast. I'm your host, Dr. Leelo Bush. I'm a master coach, author, curriculum creator, and the number one authority on Spirit-led Christian coaching. I've trained tens of thousands worldwide since 2003. And if you are ready to uplevel your skills, find greater fulfillment, and employ the most powerful coaching available to mankind—let's go. Welcome, friends. I'm Dr. Leelo Bush, your host. I pioneered Spirit-led Christian life coaching more than 20 years ago and wrote the first comprehensive Christian coaching handbook, now in its second edition. Through my academies and training programs, I have helped believers around the world discover how to coach and counsel with the wisdom of Scripture, the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and the tools of transformation that change lives. I'm honored to have you with me today. Charlie poured his heart into building a movement to save America. He believed in young people. He believed in ordinary Americans. And he believed that even in our darkest hours, America was the beacon of goodness, freedom, and truth. And he gave his life for that. Our task now is not only to protect what he built, but to grow it bigger, stronger, and bolder than anyone ever thought possible. And look around you—it's happening. God took his one voice, and when the enemy came against him, multiplied it thousands and thousands of times greater. As a first-generation American and daughter of parents who fled communism, faith, freedom, and opportunity are hallmarks to everything I do and believe in. Charlie lived his life with boldness. He was unafraid to step into the public square and declare what he believed to be true. His motto, as his family shared, was "Never surrender." He knew what it meant to take the heat, to endure criticism, and to keep going. Whether or not we agreed with him on every point, there was no denying that he embodied a spirit of courage that calls all of us higher. He leaves behind a legacy of boldness and impact, reminding us that one life lived with conviction can awaken a generation. For me, his life echoes the same conviction that God placed in my heart years ago when He called me to pioneer Christian life coaching. I remember when the idea of Spirit-led coaching was new, even unrecognized. And when it emerged, there was opposition from the old guard who thought coaching this way was too spiritual, too radical. There was no roadmap but the one God gave me. Yes, He gave me the vision, and I wrote the first Spirit-led Christian coaching textbook so that believers everywhere could have a biblical, Spirit-filled foundation for helping others. Since then, thousands have been trained, certified, and sent into the world as coaches and counselors who carry Christ's love and transformation to countless lives. That work continues today through many programs: Christian life coaching, Christian counseling, grief coaching, stress relief coaching, wellness, and so much more. These are all branches of the same tree that God planted in me. At the conclusion of this episode, I encourage you to visit the Academy. I know you have many options when it comes to training, and yes, you can invest far more or far less than our tuition. But here's the truth: you won't find training of greater value anywhere, at any price. Why am I so confident? Since I pioneered Spirit-led Christian coaching in 2003 and literally wrote the book on it, we have never stopped refining, improving, and aligning our programs with the unchanging, infallible Word of God. The results speak for themselves. Our students' lives are transformed, and through them God's power ripples outward, impacting families, communities, and nations for His glory. This is why so many of our graduates return again and again for more training. They know what we offer simply cannot be found anywhere else. In addition, we are honored to provide financial support opportunities, including tuition assistance for veterans and the Kingdom Impact Scholarship Program. Remember: God calls us to be evenly yoked in our relationships, in business, and even more importantly, in who we choose to learn from. Select your training with the same discernment you would use to choose your church. It's that important. Visit PCCCA.org/courses. While you're there, explore our programs. Pray for guidance, and when you're ready, enroll with confidence knowing you have found the right place. Your calling to impact lives is too important to wait. And when I reflect on Charlie Kirk's "Never Surrender" message, I see a bridge between his example and what we are called to do in coaching and counseling. He showed what it looks like to stand firm in public life. We are called to help people stand firm in their personal lives in the face of grief, loss, confusion, or pressure to compromise their values. Our role is to give clients the tools to find their courage, to clarify their convictions, and to live in a way that builds a legacy for Christ. So let's make this practical. One tool you can use is something I call the Conviction Clarifier. Invite your client or group to write down three values they will not surrender no matter what. Ask them: if your life were on display, what would you want people to see about you? Then help them define behaviors that show those values and identify what it would look like to compromise them. When they put those convictions into clear words, it becomes a compass for their life. Another tool is what I call the Grief-to-Purpose Mapping. All of us have experienced loss. Instead of letting grief silence us, we can let it fuel us. Ask your client: what did you lose, and what did you gain in strength or insight because of it? Then challenge them to map one concrete action that channels that new strength into serving others—maybe it's writing a book, starting a group, or simply encouraging someone who is hurting. In this way, grief becomes the soil for new growth. You can also practice what I call the Courage Role Play. Create a scenario where your client feels pressured to back down or stay silent. Play the role of that pressure. Then let them practice standing firm calmly and respectfully. Afterwards, debrief what felt strong and what felt shaky. This helps them prepare to live out their convictions in real life with grace and confidence. And then one of my favorite exercises is the Legacy Letter. Invite your client to imagine writing a letter to a future grandchild, describing the kind of life they lived and the values they stood for. This draws their focus away from the stress of today and helps them live in a way that their future self and future generations will admire. Scripture reinforces every one of these tools. Joshua 1:9 tells us, "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid. Do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." Second Timothy 1:7 says, "God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind." And Hebrews 12 reminds us to run with perseverance, fixing our eyes on Jesus, who endured opposition so that we would not grow weary. Those words anchor us as we encourage others to never surrender. So the question is: who do we need to become? If our lives were held up as examples the way Charlie Kirk's is now, what would people see? Would they see courage or compromise? Would they see faith or fear? Would they see a legacy that points to Christ, or a life that's simply drifting along? As Christian coaches, counselors, and leaders, we are called to embody courageous conviction, spiritual authenticity, resilience, rest, and legacy-minded living. That means we must w

    16 min
  4. SEP 23

    Quitting

    Episode Summary Many believers start strong then quietly stop when it gets uncomfortable. This episode reframes quitting as a learned habit you can unlearn by renewing your mind in God's Word. Dr. Leelo Bush walks through brain science, Scripture, and practical tools to choose commitment over comfort and finish the work God assigned to you. What You'll Learn Why quitting often feels like relief (and why that's deceptive). How your "primitive brain" rewards escape and how to retrain it. A simple plan to turn commitment into a covenant. Practical steps: identify excuses, if-then plans, embrace B-minus work, track reps. When a short "reset" helps without abandoning your calling. Quotable Moment (literal) "Quitting sneaks in disguised as relief, but in reality it robs us of growth, joy, and the results God wants for our lives."    Scriptures Mentioned James 1:4 — perseverance completes maturity. Romans 12:2 — be transformed by renewing your mind.   Resources PCCCA Courses: https://pccca.org/courses/ Healing the Grieving Brain Guide: https://griefcoachu.com/healing/ The Comprehensive Christian Coach Handbook (Dr. Leelo Bush): Amazon link Courageous Christian Coaching Tribe (Facebook group): facebook.com/groups/courageouschristiancoachingtribe 📄 Full Clean Transcript Have you ever noticed how easy it is to start something a new habit, a ministry project, even a dream God placed in your heart and then quietly set it aside when it gets uncomfortable? Quitting sneaks in disguised as relief, but in reality it robs us of growth, joy, and the results God wants for our lives. Today, we're talking about a habit many of us know all too well quitting and more importantly, how to quit quitting. Welcome to the Christian Coaching School podcast. I'm your host, Doctor Leelo Busch. I'm a master coach, author, curriculum creator and the number one authority on Spirit-led Christian coaching. I've trained tens of thousands worldwide since 2003, and if you are ready to uplevel your skills, find greater fulfillment, and employ the most powerful coaching available to mankind, let's go. Welcome back to the Christian Coaching School podcast. I'm Doctor Leelo Busch, your host. I have spent over two decades equipping Christians around the world to coach, counsel and minister with confidence. This podcast is where faith meets practical tools, where you will find biblical truth, encouragement, and the strategies you need to fulfill God's call on your life. Whether you're new to coaching or you've been serving for years, my goal is to inspire you, strengthen you, and give you steps that you can take right now to grow in your calling. If you've been spinning your wheels, making commitments, but never fully seeing them through, this message is for you. We're going to look at why quitting feels so tempting and how it can become a practiced habit, and what you can do to remove it as an option altogether. We'll also talk about how faith, resilience, and God's Word equip us to keep moving forward, even when it's uncomfortable. And here's the truth. Quitting is not just a one time decision. It's actually a habit. And like any habit, the more we practice it, the better we get at it. Think about it. If you practice overeating, you get good at overeating. If you practice procrastinating, you get really good at putting things off. And if you practice quitting, you get skilled at giving up. You may not even call it quitting. Instead, you justify it. You say, I'm too tired. It's not the right season. Maybe later. I remember early in my coaching journey, when I had this huge vision for what God wanted me to build. But then came the setbacks. Technical hurdles, unexpected bills, long days with very little visible progress. There were moments I thought maybe I misunderstood. Maybe this isn't for me. Quitting whispered promises of relief. But deep down, I knew that giving up would cost me far more than the discomfort of pushing forward. The fact that you even commit to something proves there's a spark in you that wants more. That spark is God's calling. Don't let quitting snuff it out. Scripture says in James chapter one verse four, let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. Perseverance requires us to stay in the process. If we jump ship too soon, we rob ourselves of the maturity and strength God is trying to form in us. Now let's look at what's really going on in your brain when you feel like quitting. Because understanding it takes away some of the mystery and even the shame. God designed our brains with layers. The oldest part, often called our primitive brain, is focused on survival. Its job is to keep us alive by seeking pleasure, avoiding pain, and conserving energy. That's why eating a donut feels good. Running from discomfort feels smart, and lying on the couch feels like the best idea you've had all day, right? Your brain is trying to protect you. Here's the problem. What protected us in the wild doesn't always help us fulfill our God given calling today. Our primitive brain doesn't know the difference between facing a lion and facing the blank page on the book manuscript. Right? It doesn't know the difference between real danger and simple discomfort. So it sounds the alarm. This is too hard. Let's quit. And when you listen and give in, your brain rewards you. It releases dopamine that feel good chemical as if to say good job. You survived. That's why quitting feels like such a relief. Your body relaxes. You think, "Whew, I don't have to do this anymore." But here's the catch. The more often you quit, the more your brain learns that quitting equals safety. Over time, the pathway gets stronger, like a well-worn trail in the woods. Your brain gets faster at leading you down that quitting path. You are literally training your brain to give up. Now, the good news is that you can train your brain the other way too. God gave you a higher part of your brain, the prefrontal cortex, that allows you to plan, reason and choose long term goals over short term comfort. When you set a commitment, when you remind yourself of your why and when you keep showing up, even when you don't feel like it, you strengthen that part of your brain. You're teaching it a new pathway. Commitment equals growth. It's like exercising a muscle. The first few reps feel shaky. Your brain screams, stop! This is uncomfortable. But each time you push through, you are rewiring your brain. And over time, it gets easier. You feel stronger. Quitting loses its grip because your brain has learned a better reward system. The joy and satisfaction of following through. So next time you feel like quitting, pause. And remember this isn't weakness. It's biology. Your primitive brain is doing what it was wired to do, but you are not stuck with that wiring. Romans chapter 12, verse two tells us, do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Renewing your mind is more than spiritual. It's also neurological. Each choice to stay committed is a small act of transformation. And every time you refuse to quit, you are reshaping your brain to align with God's call on your life. Now let's talk about commitment in everyday life. Quitting may bring a moment of relief, but it's deceptive. Rest restores you. Quitting arrests you. The secret is to treat commitment like a covenant. When I married my husband, I didn't leave the door open for further options. That decision gave me peace and freedom, and I'm sure Evan's happy about that too. The same is true when you covenant with yourself and with God, that quitting is no longer on the table. You don't have to keep debating it. You just get on with the work. And speaking of stepping into what God's called you to do, this is exactly why I am so passionate about equipping more Christians to serve with confidence in their calling. Right now is enrollment season for our Christian coaching, counseling and specialty coaching training and certification programs. These are the very programs that give you the skills, tools, and credentials to help others create transformation while growing in your own walk and purpose. If you've been feeling that nudge from the Lord to step forward in ministry or coaching, this is the perfect time to say yes. You can find all the details and enroll today at PCCCA.org/courses. Let's get you trained, certified, and ready to make an even greater kingdom impact. So how do you practically quit quitting? Start by recognizing your personal excuses. Write down the top three justifications you tend to use. Maybe it's I'm too busy, or I'm too tired, or I'm confused. Once you name them, they lose their power. Then create an if-then plan. If I think I'm too tired, then I will still do five minutes of action. Just five minutes keeps the flame alive. Next, give yourself permission to embrace B minus work. Perfectionism is often a mask for fear. Do it messy. Do it imperfectly, but do it. You can always improve on it later. And track your reps, not just your results. Did you show up today? That's what matters. Each rep strengthens your resilience muscle. Just like a toddler learning to walk. They get strong by falling and then getting back up. Falling isn't failure, but staying down is. Here's an unexpected tip. Sometimes quitting can actually help you, but only if you use it as a reset. If you're exhausted, on the verge of burnout, and feel like you just can't go on, give yourself permission to quit for now. Maybe it's just the rest of the day or even a few hours. Step away. Breathe. Take a nap. Go outside. You will feel your body relax, your mind grow quiet and your spirit reset. This is not quitting your calling. It's pressing reset. It's restorative. Call it what feels best for you. A pause. A reset. A mini Sabbath. The relief is real

    17 min
  5. SEP 16

    The 5 Best Coaching Tools

    This episode reveals five Spirit-led coaching tools that are more powerful than worksheets or strategies. Dr. Leelo Bush shows how these tools, rooted in Scripture, create transformation from the inside out. From holding space to asking powerful questions, these practices reflect the very way Christ interacted with others, equipping coaches to bring breakthrough to their clients.     What You'll Learn How to hold space so clients feel safe, seen, and accepted. A thought framework that helps renew the mind (Romans 12:2). How to guide clients in processing emotions and surrendering them to God. Ways to identify and replace limiting beliefs with biblical truth. The art of asking Spirit-led questions that unlock new possibilities.     Quotable Moment "Processing emotions doesn't mean wallowing. It means experiencing them while releasing them to God."     Scriptures Mentioned Matthew 7:1 Romans 12:2 1 Peter 5:7 Proverbs 23:7 Psalm 139:14 Proverbs 20:5     Resources PCCCA Courses: https://pccca.org/courses/ Healing the Grieving Brain Guide: https://griefcoachu.com/healing/ The Comprehensive Christian Coach Handbook (Dr. Leelo Bush): Amazon link Courageous Christian Coaching Tribe (Facebook group): facebook.com/groups/courageouschristiancoachingtribe   Full Clean Transcript Have you ever wondered what makes coaching truly life changing? It's not about gadgets, worksheets, or even the words we say. The most powerful coaching tools are not tangible at all. They're experiential. They shape how your client feels, how they think, and how they transform. Today, I'll share five of the most important coaching tools I've discovered in decades of training and practice. These aren't just methods. They're actually biblical, Spirit-led ways of partnering with God to help someone change from the inside out. And once you learn to use them, you will never see coaching or your clients the same way again. Welcome to the Christian Coaching School podcast. I'm your host, Doctor Leelo Bush. I'm a master coach, author, curriculum creator and the number one authority on Spirit-led Christian coaching. I've trained tens of thousands worldwide since 2003, and if you are ready to uplevel your skills, find greater fulfillment, and employ the most powerful coaching available to mankind, let's go. Welcome back to the Christian Coaching School podcast. I'm your host, Doctor Leelo Bush, and today we're diving into a powerful topic. We're talking about the five best coaching tools every coach needs. Now, these aren't just nice-to-have tools. These are the tools that will make or break your effectiveness as a coach—the very things that transform conversations into breakthroughs. And as you'll hear, each one of these tools is also grounded in God's Word. Be sure to stay with me until the end, because I'll be announcing our highlight podcast review and Amazon gift card winner. And if you'd like a chance to win in the future, make sure you leave us a review wherever you're listening. All right, let's dive in. One of the first and most important skills a coach must learn is holding space. This means you show up fully present for your client, giving them your complete attention without judgment, without rushing to fix them, and without making it about you. Practically, this looks like open body language, steady eye contact, and silence that isn't uncomfortable, but supportive. It's letting your client know through your presence—whether it's in person, on the phone, or on a Zoom call—that you are safe here. You can share what's really on your heart and I will not condemn you for it. Why is this so critical? Because most clients enter sessions carrying shame or fear of being misunderstood. If they sense criticism, they will close up. But if they feel accepted, they'll open up. That's when the real coaching begins. Matthew 7:1 says, do not judge, or you too will be judged. Jesus himself modeled this by welcoming people others rejected. He listened and he cared. He made them feel safe and seen. When you hold space for a client, you mirror the mercy and grace of God. Here's when to use this tool: every single coaching session, especially at the beginning of your relationship and anytime your client is sharing something tender or vulnerable. Holding space is the foundation of transformation. The second tool is a thought framework. Understanding how this framework functions will change how you coach and improve your effectiveness. This simple yet powerful framework, originally described within CBT structures and later coined as "The Model" and widely promoted by Brooke Castillo, demonstrates how circumstances trigger thoughts, which in turn create feelings, which drive actions, and ultimately lead to results. Now, this is the perfect example of an evidence-based coaching tool. This process is not really anything we can argue with—it is simply the way God created our brains to function. And we can see this evidence every day if we look for it. Here's how it looks in practice. Let's say your client says, "I'll never be able to do this." That thought creates a feeling within them—in this case, most likely discouragement. That discouragement typically causes procrastination, and the result is failure to move forward. When you walk them through this framework, you will help them see the cycle and then choose a new thought, one that lines up with the truth and the outcome that they are really looking for. Romans 12:2 tells us, be transformed by the renewing of your mind. That's exactly what this framework helps our clients do. It takes what feels complicated and overwhelming and puts it into a simple framework that reveals where transformation needs to begin—in the thought life. Here's when to use this tool: anytime a client feels stuck, caught in old patterns, or unable to reach their goals. This framework helps them see the connection between their thoughts and outcomes, and equips them to make lasting change. I recommend you learn and practice this tool first. Use it on yourself and eventually, when it fully makes sense and flows, use it with your clients. The third tool is learning to process and allow a feeling. Most people do one of two things with emotions: they either resist them, pushing them down, or they indulge them, getting stuck in them. But neither approach leads to healing. As a coach, you can teach your clients to identify what they're feeling, notice where they sense it in their body, and allow it without judgment. For example, when grief shows up as heaviness in the chest, you can guide your client to breathe through it, describe it, and simply notice it. When they do, within minutes, the intensity usually begins to fade. 1 Peter 5:7 tells us, cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you. Processing emotions doesn't mean wallowing. It means experiencing them while releasing them to God. Clients learn that feelings aren't dangerous. They are signals that can be allowed, acknowledged, and surrendered to the Lord. Here's when to use this tool: anytime your client is feeling overwhelmed, dealing with loss, or feeling paralyzed by fear. It's especially crucial in grief coaching, stress relief coaching, and life transitions. The fourth tool is examining belief systems. Beliefs act like the operating system of our lives. Most of them are formed early, often through painful experiences. They can run silently in the background and dictate behavior without our clients even realizing it. As coaches, we listen for statements like, "I'm not good enough" or "things never work out for me." Then we gently help clients examine them. Where did this belief come from? Is it really true? What would your life look like if you believed something different? Proverbs 23:7 says, as a man thinketh in his heart, so is he. Beliefs are what we think in our hearts. And when a belief is a lie, it will keep producing destructive results. But when we replace lies with God's truth, lives change. A client who once believed, "I am worthless," can learn to declare, "I am fearfully and wonderfully made." And that's Psalm 139:14. Here's when to use this tool: anytime your client keeps hitting the same wall, self-sabotaging, or struggling with identity. This is deep, foundational work, and it's where some of the most profound breakthroughs happen. And finally, the fifth tool, which should really come as no surprise, is asking powerful questions. Unlike counseling or consulting, coaching is not about giving advice. Rather, it's about drawing out answers from within the client. That's why powerful, open-ended questions are a coach's sharpest tool. Instead of asking, "Did you try harder?" you might ask, "What do you think God wants to show you through this situation?" Or, "If you fully trusted His plan, what action would you take right now?" Proverbs 20:5 says, the purposes of a person's heart are deep waters, but one who has insight draws them out. That's what powerful questions do. They draw out truth. And this is exactly how Jesus coached, through questions like "Who do you say I am?" or "Do you want to be healed?" Here's when to use this tool: throughout every coaching session. Questions are especially powerful when your client is stuck in old thinking, uncertain about a decision, or needs to see new possibilities. Before we wrap up, it's time for one of my favorite parts of the show, and it's our podcast review. This episode's review comes from Kristian B. Phillips, who wrote: "Doctor Bush is such a wealth of wisdom. She generously shares practical, faith-filled insights without holding anything back. I love how she weaves biblical truth into her teaching in such a clear and encouraging way." Kristian, thank you so much for your kind words. Your encouragement means the world to me, and I'm thrilled that this podcast is blessi

    18 min
  6. SEP 9

    Thought Conflict

    In this Spirit-led teaching, Dr. Leelo Bush unpacks the idea of thought conflict—what psychologists call cognitive dissonance—and shows how believers can resolve it through God's truth. By contrasting worldly pressures (like secular accreditation) with biblical principles, she guides listeners to embrace God's way without hesitation. Through scripture, practical tools, and encouragement, she explains how thought conflict is actually evidence of growth and transformation.     What You'll Learn How to recognize thought conflict and why it creates discomfort The biblical perspective on double-mindedness (James 1:8) Why saying "yes" to God quickly brings peace and promotion How "bridge thoughts" help transition from old beliefs to new ones The science of neuroplasticity and how it confirms Romans 12:2 Why perseverance through thought conflict is proof of growth     Quotable Moment "Thought conflict isn't failure. It's preparation. It's the sound of growth in progress."     Scriptures Mentioned 2 Corinthians 6:14 — Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers James 1:8 — A double-minded man is unstable in all his ways Matthew 5:37 — Let your yes be yes and your no be no Romans 12:2 — Be transformed by the renewing of your mind     Resources PCCCA Courses: https://pccca.org/courses/ Healing the Grieving Brain Guide: https://griefcoachu.com/healing/ The Comprehensive Christian Coach Handbook (Dr. Leelo Bush): Amazon link Courageous Christian Coaching Tribe (Facebook group): facebook.com/groups/courageouschristiancoachingtribe Transcript   If you've been researching coach or counselor training and certification programs, you may have noticed the thought conflict that comes up when you're trying to pick the right training. If you're a Christian, you know God's Word is clear that we should build on truth, not compromise. Second Corinthians 6:14 tells us, do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers than what we allow into our hearts and minds during training. Yet at the same time, the world shouts loudly about accreditation from secular organizations, and many people feel torn. On one side, we want to follow God's truth. On the other, we're afraid we'll miss out if we don't follow what the world says is important. That back and forth can create so much thought conflict that some people even give up before they start, simply because they're not 100% sure what the right choice is. This is just one example of thought conflict, and there are many others. Resolving them is today's topic. Welcome to the Christian Coaching School podcast. I'm your host, Dr. Leelo Bush. I'm a master coach, author, curriculum creator and the number one authority on Spirit-led Christian coaching. I've trained tens of thousands worldwide since 2003, and if you are ready to uplevel your skills, find greater fulfillment, and employ the most powerful coaching available to mankind, let's go. I'm Dr. Leelo Bush, and you're listening to the Christian Coaching School podcast, where we talk about Spirit-led coaching tools for transformation, and how to live and lead with joy and purpose. And before we go further, I would love to invite you to leave a review of this podcast. When you do, you'll be entered into our new listener drawing. I'll be announcing winners right here on the podcast, and you could win a gift card just for sharing your feedback. So let's dig into this idea of thought conflict. Psychologists call it cognitive dissonance, but I prefer to put it in plain language. It's when two opposing thoughts collide inside your head and create discomfort. One part of you says this is the right way. The other part says, no, that's too risky, stay where you are. It's like being pulled in two directions at once. And doesn't that sound exactly like what James wrote about in chapter 1, verse 8? A double-minded man is unstable in all his ways. Here's the key, though. When we pick God's way, even if it doesn't agree with the world, it's often a test. God uses these moments to see if we are ready for promotion, or ready for the next level of responsibility in His kingdom. If we choose wrong, if we keep wavering, we often find ourselves circling around that same mountain again, repeating the same lesson until we finally learn to say yes to Him. And thought conflict makes this hard because it feels like a battle inside your mind. But friend, the truth is that battle is the very evidence that growth is happening. Jesus said in Matthew 5:37, let your yes be yes and your no be no. When God calls you to something, the best thing you can do is settle it quickly in your spirit. Yes means yes and follow through. The longer you linger in indecision, the more exhausting that thought conflict becomes. Let me give you a picture. Imagine two shores with a river in between. On one side are your current beliefs, the ones you've held for years. On the other side are your new beliefs, the ones God is calling you to embrace. To get across, you have to step into that river of discomfort. That's that conflict. It's uncomfortable. It feels risky, but it's also the only way to cross over. If you avoid the river, you stay stuck on the wrong side, looking at the life you want but never entering it. And sometimes you don't cross in one leap. That's where what I call bridge thoughts come in. If your old thought was, "I can't do this," and the new thought is "I can do all things through Christ," you may not fully believe that yet. So you start with a bridge thought, something like this: "With God's help, I can try." That's believable. That's a step of faith. Over time, that grows into confidence. It's the way God builds endurance in us, step by step, faith to faith. Science actually helps us understand why thought conflict feels so uncomfortable. Our brains are wired for efficiency. The neural pathways we've been using for years—the old thoughts, the old beliefs—they're like well-paved highways. Your brain can travel them quickly without much effort. But when you introduce a new belief, it's like hacking a trail through the woods. At first, it feels awkward and clumsy, and your brain resists because it prefers the smooth, familiar road. That's why it feels so hard to let go of old beliefs and embrace new ones. It isn't just weakness on our part. It's our brain doing what it thinks is best to conserve energy. The problem is left unchecked, that instinct will keep us trapped in the same patterns year after year. This is exactly why Romans 12:2 tells us, do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Notice it doesn't say one-time renewal. It's a continual renewing, over and over, creating new pathways of thought until the truth of God's Word becomes the natural highway your brain takes—or you might consider it a default setting. Think about it. Every time you practice a new thought, like "With God's help, I can do this," you are literally building a new neural pathway. At first, it's faint and fragile. But as you keep practicing, that pathway strengthens, while the old one begins to weaken from lack of use. What once felt impossible eventually becomes second nature. So when you are experiencing thought conflict, don't interpret that discomfort as failure. It's actually proof that your brain is in the middle of rewiring. You're pulling away from old lies and teaching your mind to align with God's truth. And yes, that takes effort, but it also means you're on the right track. Let me encourage you with this: the same God who designed your brain gave you the ability to change it. Science calls it neuroplasticity. Scripture calls it renewal. Both point to the same truth—that you don't have to stay stuck in old ways of thinking. Through Christ, you have the power to be transformed, not just spiritually, but mentally, emotionally, and practically. So instead of fearing thought conflict, see it as evidence that your brain is doing the hard but holy work of change. You're tearing down the old highways and building new ones that lead directly to the destiny that God has prepared for you. And speaking of stepping into what God's called you to do, this is exactly why I am so passionate about equipping more Christians to serve with confidence in their calling. Right now is enrollment season for our Christian coaching, counseling, and specialty coaching training and certification programs. These are the very programs that give you the skills, tools, and credentials to help others create transformation, all while growing in your own walk and purpose. If you've been feeling that nudge from the Lord to step forward in ministry or coaching, this is the perfect time to say yes. You can find all the details and enroll today at pccca.org/courses. You can also find this link in our show notes. Let's get you trained, certified and ready to make an even greater Kingdom impact. Now let's bring this back. Thought conflict is not something to fear. It's part of the process of growth. Every time you set a goal, every time you move toward your calling, your old beliefs will rise up to challenge your new ones. It's perfectly normal. The enemy wants you to think it's a sign to quit, but really, it's a sign to persevere. Because once you cross the river, once you settle your yes with God, you'll look back and realize that what once felt impossible is now second nature. So my encouragement to you today is this: next time you feel that inner tug of war, pause and ask, "Lord, which way is Your way?" And when He shows you, don't hesitate. Let your yes be yes and your no be no. Say yes quickly. Step forward, even if it feels uncomfortable. Because that is how God promotes you, grows you, and moves you into the life He has prepared for you. So as we close, remember thought conflict isn't failure. It's preparation. It's the sound of g

    14 min
  7. SEP 2

    God-fidence

    In this episode, Dr. Leelo Bush explores how to replace fleeting self-confidence with lasting Godfidence. Through scripture, testimony, and coaching stories, she shows how confidence built on God's truth becomes steady, unshakable, and contagious.     What You'll Learn Why confidence is not a personality trait but a skill and a choice for believers. The difference between the world's confidence and God-centered confidence. How to replace self-doubt with agreement on God's promises. Daily practices to grow Godfidence. How to impart lasting confidence to others and build a faith-filled community.     Quotable Moment "The world's confidence will tell you, 'You can do it if you believe in yourself.' Godfidence says, 'You can do it because you believe in Him.'"     Scriptures Mentioned Hebrews 10:35 – "So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded." 1 Samuel 17 – David and Goliath, confidence rooted in God's presence     Resources Courses & Certifications at PCCCA – https://pccca.org/courses The Comprehensive Christian Coach Handbook (Amazon link) – https://amzn.to/4mo5ra4 Healing the Grieving Brain Guide – https://griefcoachu.com/healing/ Courageous Christian Coaching Tribe (Facebook group) – https://facebook.com/groups/courageouschristiancoachingtribe Transcript Have you ever walked into a room feeling great about yourself? And then one glance from someone made you shrink inside? Or maybe you've had the opposite happen where something clicked deep inside you and suddenly you felt unstoppable. What if you could have that kind of confidence every single day? The kind that no one and nothing could shake. Today we're talking about exactly that. And I call it Godfidence. If you've ever wished that you could have unshakable, lasting confidence, the kind that doesn't crumble the moment someone gives you a funny look, you're in the right place. Today we're talking about a very specific kind of confidence—God-given confidence. I like to call it Godfidence. I don't remember where it came from, but if it's not in the dictionary, it should be. And unlike the confidence the world gives, this one won't vanish when the circumstances change. Welcome to the Christian Coaching School podcast. I'm your host, Dr. Leelo Bush. I'm a master coach, author, curriculum creator, and the number one authority on Spirit-led Christian coaching. I've trained tens of thousands worldwide since 2003, and if you are ready to uplevel your skills, find greater fulfillment, and employ the most powerful coaching available to mankind, let's go. Welcome back, my friends. I am so glad you're here today because we're diving into one of the biggest struggles I hear from people, especially believers. They'll say, "I just wish I felt more confident." Some people think confidence is a personality type. You're either born with it or you're not. Others think it's about accomplishments—that once they've achieved a certain goal, then they'll feel confident. But what if I told you that real, lasting confidence doesn't come from either of those things? The truth is confidence that lasts—the kind that can weather storms and setbacks—is built on something the world can't give you and can't take away. And once you have it, you can pass it on to others. Confidence isn't just about feeling good about yourself. It's about stepping into what God has called you to do without being paralyzed by fear or doubt. Hebrews 10:35 says, "So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded." When you know God has called you, confidence allows you to move forward even when you can't see the whole path. Society's version of confidence says you're awesome because you're beautiful, smart, or successful. God's version says you're equipped because I am with you. The world's confidence is like a helium balloon. It's fun while it's floating. But one sharp word from someone and—pop—it's gone. God's confidence is more like a deep-rooted oak tree. The winds can blow, the rains can pour, but you're still standing because your roots are anchored in His truth. Let's clear up another myth. Confidence is not a personality trait. It's not a case of some people have it and some people don't. It's a skill. And for the believer, it's also a choice. Think about David in the Bible. When he faced Goliath, he wasn't confident because he had the whole army behind him. In fact, they were hiding. He wasn't confident because he was the tallest, strongest warrior. He was confident because he knew God was with him, and that made all the difference. If your confidence is based on how well you did last time, how many people approve of you, or whether life is going smoothly, it will always be shaky. But when it's built on what God says about you—that you were chosen, you are loved, and you are equipped—it becomes steady. And here's the test: if your confidence disappears when circumstances change, it's fleeting. If it remains when things go wrong, it's lasting. Fleeting confidence says, "I nailed that presentation, so I feel good about myself." Lasting confidence says, "Even if I stumble through this presentation, my worth and calling haven't changed." The confidence the world offers is like an energy drink. It gives you a quick boost, but then you crash. God's confidence is living water. It keeps renewing and sustaining you. I remember a time early in my career when I was invited to present to a large group of community leaders. It was a big opportunity, and of course I wanted to make a strong impression. Right before I went up to speak, someone leaned over and whispered, "You know, these people are used to hearing from nationally known speakers. You might want to keep your talk short." My first reaction—my stomach dropped. That little voice of doubt tried to tell me, "You're not qualified to be here." But then I took a deep breath, silently prayed, "Lord, this is Your message, not mine," and walked up with my head held high. The moment I started speaking, peace came over me. I knew I wasn't standing there in my own strength, and my words rolled out of me like I was a pro. It was like I was there in body, but someone else was controlling my message that day. It wasn't my polished words that made an impact—it was God's presence. And that's when I realized: when your confidence comes from Him, nobody can take it away. You might have heard this referred to as an anointing. And speaking of stepping into what God's called you to do, this is exactly why I am so passionate about equipping more Christians to serve with confidence in their calling. Right now is enrollment season at PCCCA for our Christian Coaching, counseling, and specialty coaching training and certification programs. These are the very courses that give you the skills, tools, and credentials to help others create transformation while growing in your own walk and purpose. If you've been feeling that nudge from the Lord to step forward in coaching or ministry—or whatever your particular calling is—this is the perfect time to say yes. You can find all the details and enroll today at PCCCA.org/courses. Let's get you trained, certified, and ready to make an even greater Kingdom impact. So how do you shift from self-doubt to Godfidence? It starts with agreement—agreeing with what God says about you, even if your feelings haven't caught up yet. Instead of saying, "What if I fail?" you start saying, "If God called me to this, He'll equip me for it." Instead of thinking, "I'm not good enough," you remind yourself, "In Christ I am more than enough for this moment." Confidence is not arrogance. Arrogance says, "I'm better than you." Godfidence says, "I'm secure in who I am, and you're amazing too." For me, Godfidence grows when I go back to my source. Daily time in the Word keeps my mind renewed because what we believe shapes everything. I also practice taking baby bold steps. Every time I say yes to God, even in something small, it builds my trust. I don't entertain self-doubt like it's a welcome houseguest. I speak life over myself and over others because words create belief. And I make it a habit to remember what God has already done in my life—because His track record is perfect. And here's the beautiful part: we're not meant to keep Godfidence to ourselves. I remember coaching a young woman who had such a powerful testimony but was terrified to share it. She told me she was not a speaker and she didn't know what to say. I looked her straight in the eye and said, "This isn't about being a speaker. It's about being obedient." We worked together on a short version of her story, prayed before she went on stage, and I watched as she stepped up with shaking hands. And then the Spirit took over. The response she got that night was overwhelming. People came up in tears thanking her for her courage. Later she told me, "If you hadn't believed in me, I wouldn't have been able to do it." But what I really wanted her to see was that it wasn't my belief that mattered—it was God's. And that's the power of imparting Godfidence, friend. The world's confidence will tell you, "You can do it if you believe in yourself." Godfidence says, "You can do it because you believe in Him." You don't have to wait until you feel ready, because with God, you already are. And when you live in this kind of confidence, it doesn't just change your life—it's contagious. People around you start to rise too. So this week, take one step that scares you just a little, but do it with the full assurance that God is with you. And if you see someone else shrinking back, speak courage into them. Pass it on. That's how we build a confident, faith-filled community. I'm Dr. Leelo Bush, and you've been listening to the Christian Coaching School podcast. Carry what you learned today into the lives of those who need it

    15 min
  8. AUG 26

    Fear of Starting

    Episode Summary In this Spirit-led teaching, Dr. Leelo Bush addresses one of the most common struggles: the fear of starting. With practical stories and biblical truth, she reveals why hesitation holds us back and how faith empowers us to take that first step. Through Scripture, personal testimony, and proven strategies, listeners will find encouragement to silence fear, embrace courage, and begin the work God has called them to.     What You'll Learn Why fear of starting feels so powerful — and how to break its grip. How to reframe failure as growth and obedience to God. The biblical perspective on courage and readiness. Practical tools to shrink fear and create momentum. How faith and small steps open the way for God's plan.     Quotable Moment "Readiness is not something that comes before the journey. It's something that develops along the way."     Scriptures Mentioned 2 Timothy 1:7 – God has not given us a spirit of fear. Joshua 1:9 – Be strong and courageous; the Lord is with you. Isaiah 41:10 – Do not fear, for I am with you. Proverbs 16:3 – Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.     Resources PCCCA Courses → https://pccca.org/courses/ Healing the Grieving Brain Guide → https://griefcoachu.com/healing/ The Comprehensive Christian Coach Handbook → https://amzn.to/4mo5ra4     Supplemental Resources The Comprehensive Christian Coach Handbook (Amazon) → https://amzn.to/4mo5ra4 Healing the Grieving Brain Guide → https://griefcoachu.com/healing/ PCCCA Courses → https://pccca.org/courses/ Courageous Christian Coaching Tribe (Facebook group) → https://facebook.com/groups/courageouschristiancoachingtribe Transcript One of my team members was starting her diet on Monday, but then someone brought over brownies on Sunday night. So obviously she had to wait until Monday. And then of course, Monday wasn't good either. Because there were leftovers. That's how starting works, doesn't it? It always feels like it should happen later. But here's the thing. Waiting doesn't get us anywhere. Today we're talking about why fear of starting feels so powerful and how you can finally take that first step, even when it feels scary. Welcome to the Christian Coaching School podcast. I'm your host, Doctor Leelo Bush. I'm a master coach, author, curriculum creator, and the number one authority on Spirit-led Christian coaching. I've trained tens of thousands worldwide since 2003. And if you are ready to uplevel your skills, find greater fulfillment, and employ the most powerful coaching available to mankind, let's go. Welcome to the Christian Coaching School podcast. I'm your host, Doctor Leelo Bush, and I'm so glad you're here with me today. Whether you're a long-time listener or if this is your first time joining us, you are in the right place. This is where we talk about Christian coaching, counseling, and life transformation from a biblical perspective, always with practical tools you can use right away. Today's episode is one I know will encourage you, because we're talking about overcoming the fear of starting, or what I call breaking the start barrier. Sometimes we can identify it as it's happening, and sometimes it happens unconsciously. But I believe any of us can fall victim to this. If you've ever had a God-given dream, an idea, or a goal you couldn't seem to begin, you're in the right place. This episode is going to help you move past fear, silence those voices that say you're not ready, and step forward in faith with courage. Starting anything new often feels like skydiving without a parachute. Our brains are wired to keep us safe, not to make us successful. That primitive part of our mind would rather you stay right where you are—comfortable, familiar, predictable. It's why your heart races and your inner voice starts shouting, "Danger!" the moment you think about beginning something new. I'll admit I've done the same thing. I delayed writing my first book for months because I told myself I didn't have the time to do it right. The truth? I had the time to do whatever was important to me, just like you do. I just hadn't made it a priority. And once it became a priority, I got it done. You might be familiar with my book, The Comprehensive Christian Coach Handbook. It's gotten great reviews, and now it's in its second edition. In case you'd like to read it, you can find it on Amazon and lots of other booksellers. You can either search the title or my name to find it, and I'll also put a link in the show notes for you. But here's the reality. Everybody feels constrained by something. In my case, it was lack of time. You might not feel ready for other reasons. Even those among us who look fearless on the outside have to battle that same dread. And let me be real with you—this message is for me as much as it is for you. You may know I've been in the online education industry for over 22 years now. Over that time, I've created programs, trained thousands, and built a strong institution. Since 2003, we have been early adopters in Christian coaching and creators of the Flow Spirit-led coaching model, and so much more. But here's something you probably don't know. There has been one particular piece of software I've had my eye on for nearly that entire time, and never fully mastered. Because of that, we haven't always grown to our full potential. Now, don't get me wrong—we are thriving and strong. But this one missing piece has been like a puzzle with only one corner done. Well, this past weekend I finally decided it was time. I immersed myself in learning it. Yes, I could have hired someone to do it, and I'm sure that would have been easier. But I believe at the core we need to understand the systems we rely on so that if something goes wrong, we can troubleshoot with confidence. And here's the good news. After nearly two decades of delay, it's finally complete. It's a major milestone that will make a huge difference in our reach. But I share these stories with you for a reason—because we all share the same challenges with starting. And sometimes, like me, we can put it off for months or years, even decades, when deep down we know it's important. My prayer for you is that your thing doesn't take 20 years to conquer like mine did. And this is where I love to lean on God's Word. Isaiah 41:10 says, "So do not fear, for I am with you. Do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you." Isn't that liberating? You don't have to start alone. God is right there with you at the starting line, ready to support you when you obediently step into your calling. And speaking of stepping into what God has called you to do, this is exactly why I am so passionate about equipping you to serve with confidence in your calling. Right now is enrollment season for our Christian coaching, counseling, and specialty coaching training and certification programs. These are the very courses that give you the skills, tools, and credentials to help others create transformation while growing in your own walk and purpose. If you've been feeling that nudge from the Lord to step forward in your calling, this is the perfect time to say yes. You can find all the details and enroll today at pccca.org/courses. Let's get you trained, certified, and ready for God to promote you to make an even greater kingdom impact. Now let's talk about what fear of starting can look like in our everyday lives. Because it doesn't just make you hesitate. It whispers lies that sound almost believable. Fear tells you you're not ready, so you wait, thinking you'll start when you're smarter, richer, thinner, or more prepared. But here's the truth—readiness is not something that comes before the journey. It's something that develops along the way. Fear also says you need to know everything before you begin. But life doesn't work like a GPS that shows you the entire route. More often, God gives you just the next turn. You step out, and then the path ahead becomes clear. Action brings clarity. Waiting only brings more waiting and missing out on opportunities. And then there's the big one: "If you fail, it'll be a disaster." Fear paints the worst-case scenario—people will laugh, you'll lose everything. But failure isn't final. It's actually a learning experience. Either we succeed or we learn something. It's sometimes even more valuable than succeeding right away. It builds character and demonstrates your obedience to God. I didn't understand this when I was young. Each time I would try and fail at something, I would suffer with failure shame, when it was actually part of my growth into the person I am today. Not a bad thing at all, but because I didn't know that then, I wasted a lot of time worrying about it. Thankfully, it didn't stop me from trying. The truth is, most of the time nobody is even paying attention as closely as you think, and when you stumble, it's feedback—not the end. Fear exaggerates. It invents stories that are bigger than reality. It's like a bad fortune teller that never gets it right, yet we keep listening. The good news is, we don't have to believe those lies anymore. So if fear is whispering lies, how do you break through and finally begin? The first step is to shrink the action down to something so small it's almost laughable. If you want to write a book, type a single sentence. If you want to run a marathon, put on your sneakers and walk to the mailbox. Small steps disarm fear because they're hard to argue with. The second key is to stop keeping it to yourself. Fear loves silence. It thrives in isolation. But the moment you speak your goal out loud—whether to a trusted friend, a mentor, or even in a small online group—you begin to create accountability. Suddenly, you're not just thinking about it. You're moving toward i

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